DJI allows flights in restricted areas in the US
DJI has made an unexpected decision to lift geofencing, which previously prohibited users in the US from flying in restricted areas such as nuclear power plants, airports, and natural disaster zones.
Here's What We Know
Starting 13 January, these areas, which were previously labelled as "no-fly zones", will now be displayed as "heightened warning zones", which correspond to the zones designated by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
DJI said that the Fly app will no longer block flights in these zones, but will still display warnings.
In a statement, DJI said that "in-app warnings will inform pilots when they are approaching controlled airspaces, giving operators greater responsibility for flight safety". The company also emphasised Remote ID technology, which gives authorities the tools to monitor compliance with the rules, said Adam Welch, DJI's global head of policy.
This is a remarkable shift in drone safety strategy with a potentially enormous impact, especially among drone pilots who are less aware of airspace restrictions and high-risk areas. https://t.co/YJOpe2gcZe
- Brendan Schulman (@dronelaws) 14 January 2025
There is a problem with drones weighing less than 250 grams. Previously, they had geofencing to avoid unauthorised flights into prohibited areas. Now this restriction will be lifted, and the Remote ID function can be disabled on such drones.
For example, last week, a DJI model weighing less than 250 grams damaged the wing of a Canadair Super Scooper aircraft while fighting wildfires in Los Angeles. This drone was probably not transmitting Remote ID, so the FBI will use "investigative methods" to find the pilot.
DJI introduced geo-zoning (GEO) for airports back in 2013, adding new zones in 2015 and 2016, following the White House drone incident. Now, the responsibility for flight safety lies entirely with the operator.